Parenting: Bringing up a baby and toddler together can be challenging, but it’s very common for parents to have two children close together. You may also have two children close in age if you are fostering, especially short-term fostering when a baby or toddler could arrive at short notice.
Here are six useful tips to help make parenting a little easier during this demanding yet rewarding time.
Set a Routine
Establishing a consistent daily routine is hugely beneficial when parenting a baby and a toddler. Try to follow a similar pattern of naps, meals and bedtime. This provides security and stability. Make sure the toddler’s routine accommodates the baby’s needs too. Don’t worry if the routine slips sometimes – flexibility is key! Just try to regain structure when you can. Routines are very important for children fostered with fosterplus.co.uk, who might have come from disrupted homes.
Involve the Toddler
Finding ways to involve the toddler in the baby’s care creates a nurturing bond between siblings. Give them small, safe jobs like bringing you nappies or holding the baby’s hand. Praise them for being a helpful big brother/sister. When you’re feeding the baby, let the toddler sit with you and talk to them so they don’t feel left out. Appoint them as the ‘big kid’ of the house.
Utilise Grandparents and Friends
Don’t try to do everything yourself. Accept offers of help from grandparents, family and friends. They can babysit the toddler while you tend to the baby’s needs, or vice versa. Or they can watch both children to give you a much-needed break. Let them take the toddler out on day trips too – this gives you one-on-one time with the baby.
Make Time for the Toddler
Between feeds and naps, it’s important to give the toddler quality one-on-one time too. Sit together to read stories or have a tea party. Play with their toys. Take them to the park. Give lots of hugs and praise. Toddlers need reassurance that they are still loved despite the new baby. Fifteen minutes of dedicated time prevents attention-seeking behaviour.
Learn Baby Sign Language
Around 6-8 months when babies start to communicate but can’t yet speak, consider using baby sign language. Simple signs for things like ‘milk’, ‘more’, ‘all done’ etc. enable babies to express their needs and reduce frustration. Toddlers can learn the signs too! It gives them a way to interact with the baby and feel involved. Bond with your toddler by practising the signs together. Use them consistently when communicating with your baby. This prevents the toddler from feeling left out as the baby starts to talk.
Look After Yourself
With all the demands of parenting both a baby and toddler, it’s easy for your own needs to drop down the priority list. But self-care is vital. Make sure you eat well, drink enough water and rest when possible. Shower and get dressed each day. Take a short walk for fresh air. Read a book or chat to a friend on the phone. Looking after yourself ultimately makes you a better parent.
Parenting a baby and toddler together can feel overwhelming. But keeping to a good routine, sharing the load, giving each child attention and making time for yourself will help. Remember, this period will pass. Enjoy watching the unique sibling bond develop!